Native to India, this common tree is a ready source of green twigs used as tooth brushes that release gum-protecting anti-bacterial compounds. The oil from the seeds is used to treat leprosy and skin diseases, and the leaves are used in poultices to treat wounds. The bark is employed to treat fever, nausea, vomiting and skin diseases. Extracts are widely employed in medicinal lotions, shampoos, soaps, creams, hair tonics, gargles, and toothpaste. Azadirachtin, a constituent of the plant, is an insect anti-feedant, repellent, and insecticide. Will withstand only a few degrees of freezing, but plantations are now established in several southern U.S. states. Seeds are very short-lived -- lasting only 30 days; we offer fresh seed shipped immediately after harvest.